Hornets Aim for Winning Season as Rockets Chase Playoff Aspirations
NBA Season Opener: Hornets Aim for Winning Season While Rockets Chase Playoff Aspirations
As the 2024-25 NBA season tips off, the Charlotte Hornets (0-0) head to Toyota Center to face the Houston Rockets on Wednesday night at 8 PM ET. This matchup marks an important start for both teams, each hoping to establish their identity early in the season.
Charlotte Hornets: Seeking a Turnaround
The Hornets concluded the previous season with a dismal 21-61 record, placing them fourth in the Southeast Division and marking their eighth consecutive year without a playoff appearance. With a renewed focus, Charlotte aims to flip the script this season, starting with a victory over the Rockets.
The Hornets made several changes in the offseason, parting ways with Seth Curry, Devonte Graham, and Davis Bertans. They bolstered their roster in the draft, selecting Tidiane Salaun with the sixth pick and KJ Simpson at 42. The team re-signed Miles Bridges to a three-year deal and traded for Josh Green, further enhancing their depth.
A significant factor for Charlotte’s potential success is the return of LaMelo Ball, who played just 22 games last season due to injury. When healthy, Ball averaged an impressive 23.9 points, 5.1 rebounds, and eight assists per game. Alongside him, Terry Rozier contributed 23.2 points and Miles Bridges added 21 points per game last season.
However, the Hornets need to address their defensive woes, having allowed an average of 116.8 points per game last year. With a focus on improving their defensive efficiency, Charlotte hopes to surpass .500 for the first time in years.
Houston Rockets: Building on Last Season’s Momentum
After finishing with the second-worst record in the 2022-23 season, the Rockets made significant strides last year, improving by 19 games under coach Ime Udoka. With key players returning and new additions to their roster, Houston is eyeing a playoff berth this season.
Despite losing Reggie Bullock and Boban Marjanovic in the offseason, the Rockets welcomed new faces like Aaron Holiday, Nate Hinton, and Jermain Samuels. They also traded for AJ Griffin and selected Reed Shepard with the third pick in the draft, who showcased promise in the Summer League.
Offensively, Houston averaged 114.3 points per game last season, ranking 16th in the league. The team shot 45.9% from the field and 35.2% from three-point range. Alperen Sengun led the way with 21.1 points, 9.3 rebounds, and five assists per game, while Jalen Green and Fred VanVleet added 19.6 and 17.4 points, respectively.
Defensively, the Rockets were average, allowing 113.2 points per game. Improvement on this end of the court will be crucial if they aim to become a formidable playoff contender.
Conclusion
As the Charlotte Hornets and Houston Rockets face off in this season opener, both teams carry high expectations. The Hornets look to break their playoff drought with a fresh start, while the Rockets aim to build on last season’s progress and secure a playoff spot.
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